On February 25, 1991, a Cessna 180 (registration N7676A) operated by Robert D. Fjeldheim was involved in an aviation accident near Glasgow, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO CARBURETOR ICING. FACTORS RELATING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE STRONG WINDS, HIGH OBSTRUCTIONS IN THE AREA AND TAILWIND CONDITIONS FOR LANDING AT THE ONLY AVAILABLE AREA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After descending from cruise altitude, a pilot experienced an engine failure on base leg. Unable to reach the runway due to strong winds, he turned downwind to avoid obstacles, resulting in a hard landing and collapsed landing gear.
Event Description
While descending from a cruise altitude of 5,500 feet MSL to a traffic pattern altitude of 3,200 feet MSL, the pilot applied throttle on the base leg of the approach. At that moment, the engine ceased operation. The pilot attempted to reach the runway but was unable to do so because of strong winds. To avoid power lines and buildings, he elected to turn the aircraft downwind. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground while traveling downwind. The impact caused the landing gear to collapse.
Post-Accident Findings
Following the accident, the engine was tested and operated normally, producing power as expected. No anomalies were detected during the post-accident engine run.
What happened in the 25 Feb 1991 Cessna 180 accident near Glasgow, MT?
After descending from cruise altitude, a pilot experienced an engine failure on base leg. Unable to reach the runway due to strong winds, he turned downwind to avoid obstacles, resulting in a hard landing and collapsed landing gear.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 Feb 1991 involved a Cessna 180, registration N7676A, operated by Robert D. Fjeldheim, at Glasgow, MT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO CARBURETOR ICING. FACTORS RELATING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE STRONG WINDS, HIGH OBSTRUCTIONS IN THE AREA AND TAILWIND CONDITIONS FOR LANDING AT THE ONLY AVAILABLE AREA.
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